Community, Confidence & Crowns: 2026 Banana Split Princess Pageant Set for April 26

LATROBE, PA — The 2026 Banana Split Princess Pageant will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday, April 26, at Robindale Auditorium in Latrobe, celebrating leadership, confidence, and community involvement among local youth. The annual pageant is presented by the Greater Latrobe-Laurel Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce as part of the lead-up to the Great American Banana Split Celebration this August. 

Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their communication skills, poise, and commitment to community service. Winners not only earn the title of Banana Split Princess but also serve as ambassadors for Latrobe’s unique heritage as the birthplace of the banana split — a sweet legacy that continues to draw visitors and community pride.  

“We’re so excited to welcome our contestants and families back for another year of celebration,” said pageant director Jackie Churley. “This pageant gives young women a chance to shine, build confidence, and represent our community with pride — it’s about leadership just as much as it is about fun.” 

Piper Anke, the original Banana Split Princess and a longtime advocate for the event, reflected on what the experience meant to her: “For me, it was about being involved in the community, meeting people from all walks of life, and using the opportunity to grow and make connections — the banana split is the sweet part, but the friendships and experiences are the real reward.” 

It is not too late to join in the fun. The pageant is open to girls between the ages of 9-13 and enrolled in any Westmoreland County school district. The princess will receive a full scholarship to Saint Vincent College’s Challenge Camp at the end of her reign. Contestants need to submit an online application by Friday, March 20. 

The pageant is free and open to the public — neighbors, friends, and family are encouraged to come support the contestants as they compete for this honorary role. The Princess Pageant helps build excitement for the larger Great American Banana Split Celebration, scheduled for August 22-23 in downtown Latrobe — a weekend filled with food, festivities, music, contests, and more celebrating the dessert that began right here in Latrobe. 

For more information or to sponsor the event, visit www.bananaspitfest.com, or email princess@bananasplitfest.com.